5 Tips to Improve Fuel Efficiency this Winter

It's cold outside, and it's only getting colder. As we dive headfirst into another PNW winter we can only guess why type of weather we will experience day to day, but one thing is certain, it's going to be chilly. So while we are in the midst of the holiday driving season, you know, "Over the river and through the woods," it is important to to ensure your vehicle is performing it's best so you don't end up stuck on the side of the road and to keep your fuel costs low as you head out searching for the perfect holiday gifts. Use these auto maintenance tips to increase MPGs and performance this winter!

Correct Current Problems

If you're aware of any issues on your vehicle be sure to have them taken care of before the real freeze sets in. Cold temperature have a way of exacerbating current vehicle issues, as well as causing new ones. If you're vehicle is hard to start, has trouble shifting or is giving you some other sort of trouble head on into your local auto repair shop to have the problem resolved.

Avoid Long Warm Ups

Instead of letting the defroster do all the work to clear your windshield of ice grab and ice scraper and give it a helping hand. The longer you let your car run without going anywhere the more fuel it is using. A running, stationary vehicle is getting exactly zero miles per gallon! If you need to let your car warm up before it seems to run right you're having some sort of problem that needs to be checked out. Vehicles shouldn't need more than a few seconds at most to be ready to hit the road.

Tire Maintenance

Be sure that your tires inflated to the correct PSI. Under inflated tires make it harder for the engine to spin the wheels, meaning it will burn unnecessary amounts of fuel to create the needed power to dp so. Underinflation can also cause your tires to wear out prematurely.

New Spark Plugs

Check and see if you're due for a tune up. Dirty or corroded spark plugs can misfire and waste fuel. Spark plugs fire millions of times for every 1,000 miles traveled and generally need to be replaced every 3 years or so depending on driving habits.

New Air Filter

A dirty air filter will block incoming air that is necessary for creating the proper air/fuel mix that the engine needs to properly run. If the engine can't get enough air the mass airflow sensor will calculate the lack of air and compensate by having excessive amounts of fuel burned.

As a holiday present to your car give it a tune-up. It works hard for you! If you need winter auto maintenance in Everett stop by O.N.B. Automotive. Our technicians will be happy to help you increase your MPGs this winter! Call us today at (425) 317-9618 to schedule an appointment for expert auto repair in Everett and throughout Snohomish County!